Colleagues at the
Centre for Development Studies, led by
Dr Joe Devine, were responsible for devising
and supporting the lesson learning and advocacy strategy for the programme. An important part of
this strategy was to use research and lessons to persuade the Government of Bangladesh to give
greater policy priority to the extreme poor. The papers of the book were an important part of this
successful process.

The book comes at an interesting moment in Bangladesh’s history. The country has achieved lower
middle income status by supporting a successful growth strategy, reducing poverty levels and making
improvements in other key human development indicators. Yet, one fifth of its large population
remains in extreme poverty, and levels of inequality increase.

Whether Bangladesh can continue to be successful and address the needs of its extreme poor and
most disadvantaged citizens, is the question that lies at the heart of this book. Through a set of
carefully selected papers, the book attempts to understand the specific character and trajectories
of extreme poverty in Bangladesh, examine policy options and scenarios where the needs of the
extreme poor can be addressed, and explore the lessons that emerge from this new knowledge. While
there is no panacea to eradicate extreme poverty, there are opportunities that can improve the
lives of those who live in extreme poverty. This book identifies some of these opportunities,
highlighting the need for bold and progressive policy decisions that favour the extreme poor. It is
possible for Bangladesh to make serious efforts to eradicate extreme poverty but it will have to
make difficult decisions to achieve this.